Classical China and the Contrasts of Japan: Hakone (2027)

Day 1: Shanghai

Welcome to China! Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. We arrive in Shanghai, a cosmopolitan city of over 15 million residents, home to China’s largest commercial port and its most international metropolis.

Day 2: Shanghai

Our tour of Shanghai will take us through its most iconic sights. We´ll begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. This area is home to towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower.We’ll then take a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering spectacular views of both the historic and contemporary sides of the city.Next, we’ll stroll through the Old City and visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also an explanation of traditional tea, an integral part of China’s rich cultural heritage.Our tour will continue through Xintiandi, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll explore Tianzifang, a former residential district now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries.Free afternoon. If you wish, you can enjoy a boat trip to see Shanghai at night, it will be an unforgettable experience.

Half board includes: Bufet

Day 3: Shanghai - Luoyang

Transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train (scheduled departure at 07:17 a.m.). In just over five hours, we’ll travel 1,000 km through picturesque landscapes, passing through beautiful stretches of countryside before arriving in Luoyang.Lunch will be included.Our visit will begin at the awe-inspiring Longmen Buddhist Caves, an extraordinary complex stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the river. Here, more than 100,000 Buddha statues and carvings have been sculpted into the stone, creating one of China’s most remarkable archaeological sites. To fully appreciate the grandeur of this site, we’ll also enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river.Afterward, we’ll transfer to the ancient city of Luoyang, where we’ll pass through its imposing walls and immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of its illuminated streets, filled with traditional charm and vibrant local activity.

Half board includes: Roast Beef with mushrooms Shrimp with garlic Kung Pao Chicken Fried chicken with corn Duck roll Sweet and sour pork Aubergines Fried cauliflower Vegetable with garlic Egg cakes Fried rice Soup Fruit

Day 4: Luoyang - Longmen - Sanmexia - Xian

In the early morning, on the outskirts of Luoyang, we’ll visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery, a vast and historic center of Buddhist learning that welcomes scholars and practitioners from around the world.We’ll then continue our journey to Sanmenxia, a city rich in history. Here, we’ll admire the mighty Yellow River and visit the Baolun Temple, known for its striking tall pagoda. We’ll also explore the renowned Guo Museum, considered one of the finest in China, where we’ll see the ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.Lunch will be included.Our journey eastward will take us past the sacred Mount Hua, one of China’s holiest mountains, known for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Xian, where our day will come to an end.

Half board includes: Buffet on table

Day 5: Xian

We have arrived in Xian, the fascinating city where the ancient Silk Road began.In the morning, we’ll visit the legendary Terracotta Army, an astonishing archaeological site where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, hidden underground for centuries, stand guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor.Afterward, we’ll return to Xian to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist structure that has stood for over a thousand years.Next, we’ll explore the city’s historic walled center, passing through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll visit the Great Mosque. This unique site reflects the rich blend of cultures and religions that have shaped China over the centuries.Our tour also includes entrance to the Drum Tower, where we’ll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese music played on ancient instruments.Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Day 6: Xian - Beijing

Half board dinner includes: Pork Loin Chicken Kongbao Sweet and sour pork Sauteed duck breasts Veal and oil Sesame green beans Eggplant with abalone sauce Broccoli Celery and Mushrooms with spicy sweet and sour soup Rice Fruit

Day 7: Beijing

An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of China’s capital. We’ll enjoy a full-day guided tour, starting with a walk through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world. Next, we’ll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the most impressive architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing’s best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. We’ll experience local life with a tricycle ride through the traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where we can observe daily life.Lunch will be included.We’ll then conclude our tour with a visit to the stunning Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil lakes.06:30 p.m. - Tour ends. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (in which case, the return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel’s address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).Note: Due to heritage conservation measures and enhanced visitor safety, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee access to this site. If the visit is not possible, it will be replaced with a tour of the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both iconic landmarks in Chinese history and culture.

Half board includes: Kung bao prawn ball Chive chicken Mengcheng beef Bittersweet duck breasts Broccoli Fried bamboo shoots Special spring rolls Cabbage Vegetable beef soup Fruit Rice

Day 8: Beijing

Half board includes: Traditional Peking Duck Zhizi barbecue Golden fried ball Kungbao chicken Muxu and egg with vinegar Pork stew with turnip Shrimp with honey sauce Broccoli Vegetable beef soup Fruit Rice

Day 9: Beijing - Tokyo

After breakfast, we’ll provide a transfer to the airport for the flight to Tokyo (included). Welcome to Japan! After completing border procedures, an assistant (usually Spanish-speaking, though sometimes English-speaking) will be waiting for you. You’ll then be transferred by shared shuttle bus to the hotel. Free time.

Day 10: Tokyo

In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about seven hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, that we will see from the bus. It is known as the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included up to Tembo Deck at 350 meters high), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in Asakusa, where we’ll explore the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel passing by Akihabara district, the "Electric City", known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture; and Ginza district.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.

Half board dinner includes: Pork shabu-shabu 2 types of pork cut: belly and shoulder loin, vegetables, noodles, udon, rice and dessert

Day 11: Tokyo - Kamakura - Enoshima - Odawara

We’ll leave TOKYO and head to KAMAKURA, an “oasis of peace” that served as Japan’s capital for two centuries and is home to numerous shrines, temples, and gardens.At the Hokoku-ji Zen Temple, we’ll stroll through its beautiful bamboo forest (admission included) and enjoy a cup of green tea. Before we visiting the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)—admission included.Our route then continues along a scenic coastal road following the Pacific Ocean. We’ll have free time for lunch and a walk on Enoshima, a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge.We’ll then continue to ODAWARA, where admission to the castle is included—an impressive medieval fortress (restored in the 20th century) from the Edo period and one of Japan’s most important castles.Overnight stay.

Day 12: Odawara - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko

Our day will be spectacular as we travel toward the beautiful Hakone area, a region of lakes and mountains near Mount Fuji. We’ll begin the day by heading up to OWAKUDANI, the “Valley of Hell,” a volcanic crater with steam vents, bubbling mud, and sulfurous gases.(Note: Access to Owakudani is occasionally closed due to high volcanic activity or toxic gases. If this happens, we will instead visit Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine.)After that, we’ll continue to OSHINO HAKKAI, a small and picturesque village with eight ponds and beautiful views of Mount Fuji. We then move on to KAWAGUCHIKO, an idyllic town of small houses, flowers, and mountains beside a stunning lake, where we’ll enjoy a lovely boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko.Later, we’ll ascend Mount Fuji via the road that takes us to the “Fifth Station.” Driving through spectacular forests and scenic landscapes, we’ll reach an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet).Note: In winter, the route up Mount Fuji is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we’ll go as far as we’re allowed.We’ll return to Kawaguchiko and stay at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where you can relax and enjoy the Onsen (public hot spring bath). Dinner included.Note: In the planned Ryokan, some rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel instead.

Day 13: Kawaguchiko - Iyashi No Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto

In the morning, we’ll follow a scenic road that winds around picturesque lakes to visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a small village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later restored as an open-air museum. Its traditional houses have been converted into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.Next, we’ll visit the breathtaking Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most stunning natural attractions, with cascading water that spans a height of 20 meters.From there, we’ll continue to Nagoya, where we’ll visit the Toyota Museum (admission included), a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and those curious about automotive innovation.Finally, we’ll proceed to Kyoto for our overnight stay.

Half board dinner includes: .

Day 14: Kyoto

We’ll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.We’ll include a visit to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we’ll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or “Bridge over the Moon.” This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.We’ll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s “five great Zen temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.Next, we’ll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.

Day 15: Kyoto - Nara - Osaka

We’ll depart for NARA, the ancient capital of Japan to visit the magnificient Todaiji Temple, and its Great Buddha before walking around its park where friendly deers roam freely together with visitors. We continue to OSAKA, and take a panoramic tour of the vibrant Dotonbori district. You will have free time for lunch and later we will admire Osaka Castle, built at the end of 16th century, and still one of the country’s most emblematic historic monuments. We will continue to Umeda neighborhood where Umeda Sky Building is located.

Half board includes: Buffet More than 20 Westen set menu less than 20

Day 16: Osaka - Himeji - Korakuen Garden - Okayama

We’ll depart for Himeji, where admission to its immense complex, showcasing the architecture of Japanese castles, will be included. After lunch at a local restaurant (included), we’ll continue to Okayama, where we’ll visit Korakuen, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, with its lakes, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses. By crossing a pedestrian bridge over the river, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Okayama Castle, a sixteenth-century Japanese fortification rebuilt in 1966 after being destroyed in a World War II bombing (visit inside the castle not included). Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the city, an active provincial capital with just over 700,000 inhabitants.Note: On some dates, we may stay in Fukuyama or Kurashiki. The visit to Kurashiki may take place on the same day in the afternoon.

Half board includes: Appetizer, soup, main course chicken, dessert, 3 types of bread

Day 17: Okayama - Kurashiki - Itsukushima - Hiroshima

We’ll set out for Kurashiki, a city renowned for its beautifully preserved historic center. You’ll have time to enjoy a leisurely stroll through its charming streets, where the atmosphere of the past is still alive.Our journey will then take us to Hiroshima, a city forever marked by the atomic bomb that devastated it in 1945. We’ll visit the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the moving Peace Memorial Museum, where the history and resilience of this city are powerfully remembered.Seeking serenity after these reflections, we’ll take a ferry to the island known as the place “where men and gods live together.” Here, we’ll visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas, and partially built over the water. You’ll have time to explore the shrine, wander through the picturesque town center, and enjoy lunch.Afterward, we’ll return to our hotel in Hiroshima, where dinner will be included.Note: The order of visits in Hiroshima may be adjusted without altering the overall tiinerary.

Half board dinner includes: Dinner buffet

Day 18: Hiroshima

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.